Brighton, the vibrant coastal city on England’s south coast, is as famous for its eclectic food scene as it is for its pebble beach, historic pier, and quirky culture. This seaside gem boasts a mix of traditional British fare, international cuisines, artisanal coffee spots, craft beer pubs, and vegan-friendly dining. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood straight from the English Channel, a hearty Sunday roast, or a creative plant-based feast, Brighton’s culinary landscape caters to every taste and dietary preference.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top food and drink experiences in Brighton, from iconic must-try dishes to unique dining spots that reflect the city’s lively personality.
Seafood – Fresh from the Shore
It would be impossible to talk about Brighton’s food without mentioning seafood. Being right on the coast, the city benefits from a steady supply of fresh catches.
- Fish and Chips – Brighton’s seafront is lined with places serving this British classic, but some of the best experiences come from enjoying it outdoors with the sea breeze on your face. Lightly battered cod or haddock with chunky chips, mushy peas, and a splash of vinegar is a must-try.
- Oysters and Shellfish – Several seafood restaurants and stalls sell fresh oysters, mussels, and prawns. Enjoy them with a glass of chilled white wine or Champagne for a touch of seaside luxury.
- Grilled Mackerel – Often served whole with a squeeze of lemon, grilled mackerel is a healthy and flavourful option that showcases local fishing traditions.
Many of Brighton’s seafood spots work with sustainable suppliers, ensuring you can enjoy your meal knowing it’s responsibly sourced.
Vegan and Vegetarian Paradise
Brighton has a well-earned reputation as one of the UK’s most vegan-friendly cities. The plant-based options here aren’t just an afterthought—they’re a major draw for locals and visitors alike.
- Vegan Burgers – From classic-style burgers made with plant-based patties to gourmet versions topped with creative sauces and vegan cheese, Brighton offers plenty of choices for burger lovers.
- Dairy-Free Desserts – Vegan ice cream parlours and bakeries serve everything from coconut milk gelato to indulgent chocolate brownies.
- Raw and Organic Cafés – For health-conscious eaters, Brighton has raw food restaurants offering colourful Buddha bowls, fresh juices, and nutrient-packed smoothies.
Even traditional pubs in Brighton often have an impressive vegan menu alongside their meat dishes.
Pubs and Craft Beer Culture
Brighton’s pub scene is as diverse as its residents. You’ll find everything from centuries-old traditional inns to modern craft beer bars showcasing experimental brews.
- Historic Pubs – The city’s older pubs offer a cosy atmosphere, often with wood-panelled interiors, open fires, and hearty pub food. Perfect for a rainy day.
- Craft Beer Breweries – Brighton and nearby areas host several microbreweries producing IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Many bars serve a rotating list of local beers, so there’s always something new to try.
- Seafront Drinking – In summer, outdoor terraces overlooking the sea become some of the most popular drinking spots in the city.
Pair your pint with classic pub snacks like Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, or a sharing platter of cheeses and cured meats.
International Flavours
Brighton’s food scene reflects its multicultural population, with restaurants offering a world tour of cuisines.
- Italian – Authentic pizzerias, fresh pasta bars, and gelato shops are easy to find.
- Middle Eastern – Expect fragrant falafel wraps, grilled kebabs, and mezze platters with hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh.
- Indian and South Asian – From street-food-inspired curries to refined fine dining, Brighton has excellent options for lovers of spice.
- Japanese – Sushi bars and ramen joints are increasingly popular, offering both traditional dishes and modern fusion creations.
This diversity means you can enjoy a Moroccan tagine for lunch, a Vietnamese pho for dinner, and still have space for a French pastry the next morning.
Coffee Culture and Independent Cafés
Brighton takes its coffee seriously. Independent coffee shops compete to serve the perfect espresso or flat white, often accompanied by artisan pastries or light brunch dishes.
- Speciality Coffee – Baristas here pride themselves on precision brewing, using single-origin beans and alternative brewing methods like pour-over or Aeropress.
- Creative Interiors – Many cafés double as art spaces, bookshops, or vintage furniture showrooms, adding to the city’s creative charm.
- Vegan-Friendly Options – Oat, almond, and soy milk are standard offerings in most coffee shops, ensuring everyone can enjoy their caffeine fix.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
If you have a sweet tooth, Brighton delivers in abundance.
- Seaside Rock – No trip to the coast is complete without the traditional Brighton rock candy, often striped and brightly coloured.
- Ice Cream – The city’s ice cream parlours offer both traditional dairy flavours and vegan varieties made from coconut, oat, or almond milk.
- Afternoon Tea – Brighton’s hotels and tearooms serve elegant afternoon teas with finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes. Some add a creative twist with themed menus or unusual flavour combinations.
Street Food and Markets
For those who prefer casual dining, Brighton’s street food scene is thriving.
- Food Trucks – From loaded fries to gourmet hot dogs, food trucks appear at festivals, markets, and even along the seafront in summer.
- Open-Air Markets – The city hosts regular food markets where you can sample everything from handmade cheeses to artisan chocolates.
- Pop-Up Kitchens – Many bars and breweries collaborate with pop-up chefs, offering limited-time menus that showcase emerging talent in the local food scene.
Seasonal and Local Produce
Many Brighton chefs take pride in using locally sourced ingredients. Farmers’ markets in and around the city offer seasonal vegetables, free-range meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The surrounding Sussex countryside also produces excellent wines and ciders, which often feature on local menus.
Must-Try Food and Drink Experiences in Brighton
- A Pint by the Sea – Nothing beats sipping a local craft beer on the seafront as the sun sets.
- Seafront Fish and Chips – A classic British seaside tradition.
- Sunday Roast in a Cosy Pub – Often featuring roast beef, Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.
- Cocktails in The Lanes – Stylish bars in Brighton’s historic quarter serve everything from classic martinis to experimental creations.
- Vegan Feast – Brighton’s plant-based restaurants are among the best in the UK.
Why Brighton is a Foodie’s Dream
Brighton’s culinary appeal lies in its diversity, creativity, and commitment to quality. The city embraces tradition—think hearty pub meals and time-honoured seaside treats—while also leading the way in vegan innovation, international fusion, and sustainability. Dining in Brighton isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing the character of the city through its food and drink.
Whether you’re here for a quick weekend break or an extended stay, you’ll find something new and exciting to tempt your taste buds each day. From sunrise coffees in quirky cafés to late-night snacks in bustling bars, Brighton invites you to indulge in a full spectrum of flavours, always with a view of the sea just around the corner.
